TRAVERSE CITY -- When Jess Collins was searching for a name for her upscale equestrian supply shop, she looked east -- way east.
"I was inspired by old English pub signs and I like the color red, so we came up with Red Hare Tack & Togs," said Collins, who launched her business five months ago in Building 50 in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. "We're the only equestrian boutique in northern Michigan."
Red Hare Tack & Togs features halters, reins and riding clothing from many top manufacturers, including Joules, Kyra K, Irideon and Pikeur. There also are items from Michigan vendors, including custom-made saddle pads, halters and dog accessories from Bad Pony, a Lake Leelanau company.
If you're looking for equestrian artwork, Red Hare offers beautiful works by noted artist Tina Evans.
Collins grew up in Benzie County, rode when she was young and has always been an avid horse fan. Opening her own business was something Collins always wanted to do.
She's combined her love of horses with the growing popularity of equestrian events, especially Horse Shows by the Bay, which lures thousands of visitors to the Traverse City region every summer.
The 2008 edition of Horse Shows by the Bay will be held July 16 to Aug. 3 at Flintfields Horse Park, 10 miles east of Traverse City. The show is sanctioned by the United States Equestrian Federation and is also recognized by the World Champion Hunter Rider Awards Program, Show Jumping Hall of Fame, North American League and the Young Jumper Championships.
Featured events include four $5,000 Hunter Classics, a weekly $25,000 Grand Prix and a $10,000 International Hunter Challenge Derby Classic.
"For us, the end of July is like the Christmas shopping season for other retailers," said Collins. "It's our busiest time."
In addition to organized events, there are more than 4,600 horses living in the six-county region that includes Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau and Wexford counties, Collins said.
"With the growing popularity of equestrian competitions, we felt there was a real need for a shop like ours," said Collins. "There was nothing like it in northern Michigan. I think the closest similar shop is downstate, south of Grand Rapids, and when you're buying riding clothes, you need to have the proper fit."
Since opening her doors, Collins has seen a steady increase in the number of horse lovers stopping by Red Hare Tack & Togs. In addition to seeing her business grow over the years, Collins has another goal.
"I really want to promote and support equestrian events," she said. "It's a great sport and it's growing."
About Red Hare Tack and Togs
Address: 800 Cottageview Dr., Suite 40, Traverse City
Phone: (231) 922-9301
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Employees: 3
Years in business: 5 months
In Business is a weekly feature on northern Michigan businesses. Next week: Dancin Dogg Golf.
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